Last Place...?Stacy Park

The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience?

I stride down the hall and hear the thunderous applause. I smile coyly to myself and take my stance. The room grows quiet, and I start my performance. Yes, here I am. I'm finally here standing on this stage with triumph in my eyes. As I start singing, I begin to feel melancholy, and my memories of tenth-grade start creeping back.

Two years ago

“Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to introduce the James Logan High School Advanced Choir! Please welcome them with a round of applause!”

My choir members start walking in a synchronized form and halt as they get to their places. Soon, my row begins striding down the platform, and as I get into my center formation, I miss a beat and walk passed my stance.

“Shoot. Minus two points.” I grumble.

I shuffle back towards my place and bump into the person on my right. I feel a slight glare from her and gulp in...